County Juvenile Court changes judges

Published 7:00 pm, Thursday, September 6, 2007

For almost three years, Watson has made decisions that he has hoped would change children and young adults' behavior.

"We've had some success stories through probation," Watson said. "That's what makes it all worthwhile."

Using a variety of local programs, Watson said he has tried to give kids opportunities to develop into productive residents but it's difficult.

"It's frustrating when you see the lack of parent involvement," Watson said. "Some of these children are not getting the love and supervision they need."

Ron Leach, Director of Montgomery County Juvenile Probation, said Watson holds the kids accountable, the parents accountable and the juvenile probation staff accountable.

"If you do that, you are going to be successful," Leach said.

Leach also emphasized Watson's willingness to work with the schools.

"He understands schools because he's married to a teacher," said Carrie Galatas, Conroe Independent School District's attorney. "He's done a great job of working with the schools because he appreciates the constraints under which we operate."

"When I'm practicing in Judge Watson's court and my clients ask me what the judge's decision will be, it's easy for me to tell them that Judge Watson will make the right decision and it will be fair and equitable," Bond said. "That makes them feel comfortable."

Montgomery County Juvenile Prosecutor Carolyn Atkinson said it has been a privilege working with Watson.

"He's always giving of himself," Atkinson said. "He really cares about the children of this community."

Watson said his success as the primary juvenile judge is a result of the people he works with, especially the probation officers who "have been tireless in their jobs," Watson said.

County Court-at-Law 4 Judge Mary Ann Turner will be taking over as the new head of the juvenile court and Watson wishes her the best.

Turner, who has worked with 410th state District Judge K. Michael Mayes on a juvenile drug court pilot program, is looking forward to helping young adults and children.

"It's one place in the judicial system where we can still make a difference," Turner said.